Belgian artist Reinhard De Jonghe is using artificial intelligence alongside archival photographs and postcards to recreate scenes of The Hague from a century ago.
His 3D video clips, shared on Instagram, show how major parts of the city centre looked before many of its historic canals were filled in to make way for roads and tram lines.
Waterways wash away modern streets
The animations focus heavily on the return of water to areas where it has long disappeared. In one video, a large wave washes away modern pedestrians, asphalt, and tram tracks, leaving behind the streetscape from 100 years ago.
Locations featured in the project include the Spui, Bierkade, and Prinsegracht, showing how dramatically the layout of the city has transformed over the past century.
Familiar landmarks in altered surroundings
De Jonghe has also reconstructed the Turfmarkt, which once carried canal water up against its quays with dozens of small boats moored in place. Today, that area includes the square and pond outside the Amare theatre complex and City Hall.
While many of the water routes are now unrecognisable, some landmarks remain consistent across the eras. The Nieuwe Kerk appears in the historical imagery standing in the same location as it does today.
